Grilled Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki

Introduction

Grilled Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki is a beloved Greek dish that brings together the smoky flavors of marinated chicken grilled to perfection and the cool, refreshing taste of tzatziki. This dish is not only a staple in Greek cuisine but also a favorite across the Mediterranean and beyond. Whether served on a skewer at a summer barbecue or wrapped in warm pita bread for a quick meal, souvlaki offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to Greece.

The History

Souvlaki has its roots in ancient Greece, where archaeological evidence suggests that people were grilling meat on wooden sticks as far back as 1700 BCE. The modern version of souvlaki emerged around the 19th century, inspired by the ancient dish called kandaulos. Today, it’s commonly found in street food stalls, restaurants, and home kitchens throughout Greece. Served with fresh vegetables, pita bread, and the iconic tzatziki sauce, souvlaki remains a symbol of Greek culinary tradition and hospitality.

Ingredients Breakdown

The magic of souvlaki lies in the balance of simple yet flavorful ingredients:

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness and flavor retention during grilling.
• Mediterranean Herbs: Oregano, thyme, and rosemary add earthy depth to the marinade.
• Olive Oil: A base for the marinade, olive oil helps carry the flavors into the meat.
• Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and acidity, tenderizing the chicken slightly.
• Garlic: Infuses the chicken with bold, aromatic flavor.
• Tzatziki Ingredients: Yogurt, cucumber, garlic, dill, lemon juice, and olive oil come together to create this creamy, cooling sauce.

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Add bite-sized chicken pieces and let them marinate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
2. Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
3. Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
4. Grill the Souvlaki: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Cook the skewers for about 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally until golden and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
5. Make Tzatziki: Grate cucumber, squeeze out excess moisture, then combine with Greek yogurt, minced garlic, chopped dill, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Chill before serving.
6. Assemble: Serve souvlaki skewers with warm pita bread, sliced tomatoes, red onions, olives, and a generous dollop of tzatziki.

Tips

• Marinating Time: For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours or up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.
• Use Metal Skewers: They conduct heat better and help cook the chicken more evenly than wooden ones.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Leave enough space between chicken pieces on the skewers for proper charring and doneness.
• Prevent Sticking: Lightly oil the grill grates before placing the skewers on them.
• Cooling the Tzatziki: Let the tzatziki chill in the fridge for an hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Variations and Customizations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with halloumi cheese or grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, eggplant, and mushrooms.
• Different Proteins: Use pork or beef instead of chicken for a traditional souvlaki twist.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of harissa to the tzatziki for a spicy kick.
• Gluten-Free: Serve without pita bread or use gluten-free wraps for a safe alternative.
• Wrap Style: Turn it into a souvlaki wrap by filling a large pita with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, chicken, and tzatziki.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value

Chicken souvlaki with tzatziki is a well-balanced meal rich in lean protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables. Here’s what you can expect from a typical serving (1 skewer + tzatziki + pita):

• Protein: High-quality protein from chicken supports muscle growth and repair.
• Fats: Olive oil and yogurt provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and probiotics.
• Low Carbs: Easily adaptable for low-carb diets by omitting the pita and adding more veggies.
• Calories: Around 300–400 calories per serving depending on portion size and added ingredients.
• Vitamins & Minerals: Lemon juice boosts vitamin C, while cucumbers and herbs offer antioxidants and fiber.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Souvlaki:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into cubes
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Wooden or metal skewers

For the Tzatziki Sauce:

• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• ½ English cucumber, grated and drained
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh dill (or 1 tsp dried)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add chicken cubes and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
2. Soak wooden skewers in water if using. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
3. Thread chicken pieces onto skewers. Grill for 8–10 minutes, turning often until browned and cooked through.
4. To make tzatziki: Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Mix well, cover, and chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
5. Serve hot souvlaki skewers with tzatziki, warm pita bread, sliced tomatoes, and red onions.

FAQ

Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?

Yes! Place skewered chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 18–20 minutes, turning halfway through.

How long does tzatziki last in the fridge?

Tzatziki can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Stir well before serving.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids love the skewers, and you can adjust the spice level to suit their tastes.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Yes, the chicken can be frozen in the marinade for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before grilling.

What kind of yogurt should I use for tzatziki?

Full-fat Greek yogurt is